Need to clear pollution of corruption from system : Dr Harsh Vardhan

Speed Post News Network

New Delhi : Union Minister for Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, Dr Harsh Vardhan on June 27, 2017, made a strong pitch for embedding Information Technology into pollution control regime to enhance transparency and efficiency in efforts to check pollution.

Addressing the inaugural session of the 62^nd Conference of Chairmen & Member Secretaries of Pollution Control Boards/Committees here, Dr Harsh Vardhan said there is a need to clear the pollution of corruption from the system besides clearing air and water pollution. He emphasised that the use of Information Technology will ensure better compliance and enhance the interaction and outreach between various stakeholders, according to a PIB release.  He also said that IT will also help in resolving issues with State Pollution Control Boards.

Expressing concern over the air quality status of Delhi, the Minister called for substantive action at the local level along with a holistic action plan for air quality management.  “Our Government is committed to promote economic well-being along with environmental well-being,” Dr Harsh Vardhan said.

Referring to the flagship schemes such as Swachch Bharat Abhiyaan, Make in India campaign, Smart Cities Project and Digital India Campaign, Dr Harsh Vardhan said that Make in India will adopt a ‘Zero Effect Zero Defect’ policy, which will leave Zero Effect on the environment.   The Minister stressed on the need to address the gaps in the disposal of Solid Waste Management as 50% of the waste collected is dumped unscientifically.  He also pointed out that while 2,59,000 tonnes of plastic waste is generated every day, only 14 States/Union Territories have banned plastic carry-bags.